Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry
Whenever I crave a quick and satisfying meal, I find myself returning to my beloved Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry. It’s one of those dishes that never fails to hit the spot. I remember the first time I made it; it started as an experiment to use up some leftover broccoli and a package of ground beef I had in the fridge. Little did I know that this simple combination would become a staple in my home. The savory sauce, tender broccoli, and juicy beef create a harmony of flavors that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up!
As I stirred the ingredients together for the first time, the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing my family in with curiosity. The vibrant green of the broccoli against the rich browns of the beef made the dish not only delicious but visually appealing too. We devoured it over fluffy white rice, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special. This dish has become a regular feature at our dinner table, especially on busy weeknights when time is tight but I still want to serve something nourishing.
I love how versatile this Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry can be. Sometimes, I toss in other vegetables I have on hand, like bell peppers or even snap peas, which adds a nice crunch and variety. It’s a fantastic way to get those nutrients in while also satisfying any cravings for comfort food. I encourage you to try making this dish; I promise, you’ll be glad you did!
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
10 mins
15 mins
Medium
450 kcal
35 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
22 g
Skillet, Whisk, Saucepan, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board
What’s Great About This Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry
Quick and Easy
One of the best things about making Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry is how quick it is to prepare. From chopping the vegetables to serving it on the table, you can have a delicious dinner ready in under thirty minutes. This makes it perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty but don’t have a lot of time to cook.
Healthy Ingredients
This stir fry is packed with nutritious ingredients. The combination of broccoli, onion, and garlic provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Plus, using lean ground beef ensures you’re getting protein without too much fat, making it a balanced meal for you and your family.
Flavorful Sauce
The sauce in this recipe is a game changer. A mix of low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger creates a savory-sweet flavor that envelops the beef and broccoli. It’s simple yet packs a punch, ensuring each bite is filled with flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser
This dish is a hit with everyone from kids to adults. The vibrant colors and delicious taste appeal to all ages, making it an excellent choice for family dinners. You can easily increase the portion sizes for gatherings or meal prep, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Customizable
You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste. Want to make it spicier? Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Prefer more vegetables? Feel free to throw in some bell peppers or snap peas alongside the broccoli. The possibilities are endless!
One-Pan Wonder
This Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry is a one-pan dish, which means clean-up is a breeze. With minimal dishes to wash, you can enjoy your meal and have more time to relax afterward. Less mess, more enjoyment!
What Goes Into Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry
This dish perfectly combines all the right flavors and textures. The key players include broccoli, which adds a delightful crunch, and ground beef, which brings richness to the dish. Together, they create a well-balanced meal that is satisfying and nutritious.
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce: This forms the base of the savory sauce, delivering umami flavor without excessive salt.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce.
- 1 1/3 cups beef broth: Enhances the beef flavor and adds moisture to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, creating a nice glaze on the stir fry.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the beef and vegetables, adding healthy fats.
- 1 pound ground beef: The protein source that adds heartiness to the meal.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the dish to perfection.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for flavor; it elevates the dish significantly.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced: Adds a refreshing warmth that pairs well with the soy sauce.
- 4 cups broccoli florets: The star vegetable that brings crunch and nutrition.
- Cooked white rice: For serving, it acts as a base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional): For garnish, adding a nutty flavor and a bit of elegance.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat in their meals.
Making Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry
Ready to create your own delicious Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry? Let’s dive into the steps that will bring this dish to life. It’s a simple process that guarantees a delightful meal.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch until smooth. Setting this aside allows the flavors to meld while you prep the other ingredients.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil shimmering but not smoking; this ensures a good sear on the beef.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Allow it to cook undisturbed for a few minutes until it starts browning; this helps develop flavor.
- Use a spatula to break up the beef and continue cooking until it’s fully browned and crumbled, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside; this prevents overcooking.
- In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant. The aroma will be enticing!
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Stir to combine the beef with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Add the broccoli florets and the sauce you prepared earlier. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well coated.
- Simmer the stir fry for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the broccoli to become tender yet still crisp. This is key for maintaining that delightful texture.
- Once the sauce has thickened and the broccoli is tender, it’s time to serve! Place the stir fry over a bed of cooked white rice.
- To finish, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Enjoy your meal!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Method: Stir frying is quick and high-heat cooking, retaining nutrients and flavors in your ingredients.
- Vegetable Prep: Cut the broccoli into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Beef Selection: Use lean ground beef to make the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Substitutions and Tips
Here are some helpful tips and substitutes to consider when making your Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry. Flexibility is key!
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the stir fry for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fried rice or spring rolls.
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Serving Style: Serve it family-style on a large platter or individual bowls for a cozy meal.
Side Dish Ideas for Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry
When it comes to serving your Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry, there are plenty of delightful side dishes and pairing options to enhance your meal.
- Fried Rice: A classic accompaniment that complements the stir fry beautifully.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls add a nice crunch and contrast to the meal.
- Asian Slaw: A fresh slaw with a tangy dressing can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the stir fry.
- Steamed Dumplings: These can be a hearty addition to your dinner, plus they’re fun to share!
- Seasonal Vegetables: Consider serving seasonal vegetables on the side to keep it light and healthy.
- Occasion: This dish is perfect for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers promptly in an airtight container. They can be enjoyed for lunch the next day!
FAQ
Conclusion
The Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry stands out because of its quick preparation and satisfying flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and nutritious. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; not only will you enjoy the cooking experience, but your family will love the delicious outcome. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household as it has in mine!
Ground Beef Broccoli Stir Fry
Equipment
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Wooden Spoon
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Brown sugar
- 1 1/3 cups Beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 pound Ground beef
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1 small Yellow onion
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger
- 4 cups Broccoli florets
- to serve Cooked white rice
- optional Toasted sesame seeds
- optional Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add broccoli and the prepared sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Serve warm with white rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes if desired.
